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Dáil
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Online harassment Bill

Summary

Brendan Howlin asked when the online harassment and cyberbullying Bill would progress. The Minister said work was advancing but enactment before summer recess was unlikely, though he would keep working with Howlin.

I seek an update from the Minister for Justice and Equality. The Department has been working with me on the online harassment, cyberbullying and related offences Bill. There has been more discussion about the Bill because other cases of online harassment have come to light. There is certainly agreement on the urgency of getting it enacted. It was our common objective to have the legislation completed, at least in this House, before the end of this term. Where stands that Bill now and is there any prospect of having it through the Houses by the summer recess?

Comment on this
Charles Flanagan Minister for Justice and Equality Fine Gael

I am pleased that Deputy Howlin indicated that contact is ongoing. Work is proceeding apace. I am sure the Deputy will acknowledge that there are certain complexities and it is important that we get matters right. There are approximately four weeks left of the session. It is unlikely that the Bill will be enacted by the summer recess but I will work with Deputy Howlin towards ensuring we can make as much progress as possible on what is an urgent and important issue.

Comment on this